Early Book Review: Heart and Brain: Onward to Good Things! by Nick Seluk

Heart and Brain: Onward to Good Things! by Nick Seluk is currently scheduled for release on May 2 2023. New York Times bestselling author Nick Seluk returns with a charming, hilarious, and inspirational book of comics in which his popular Heart and Brain characters fight through the world's gloom and uncertainty and march toward a brighter, more hopeful future. This book of comics directly addresses the mental health challenges we’ve been through collectively as a species, with specific illustrations and new content that help people feel understood, seen, and encouraged. Delivered with a humorous but sensitive touch, Onward to Good Things contains short graphic novel elements in three sections to tie together the themes and comics in one continuing short story that will help propel the author's millions of fans—and brand-new readers—toward a brighter and more laugh-filled future.

Onward to Good Things offers readers exactly what the blurbs promises, and fans of the characters will expect when picking up this title. While some of the panels seemed familiar to me, I think this format and larger collection on the artist's work will appeal to fans of the comic. I enjoyed the humor style and felt that it was consistent in style and quality. I liked the self awareness and honesty in the book, something that we could all use a little more of. I think everyone will find something to relate to in this book, but those that have recognized and embraced their own anxiety and self doubts will connect to it the most.

Early Book Review: Why Are You Like This? An ArtbyMoga Comic Collection by Meg Adams

Why Are You Like This?: An ArtbyMoga Comic Collection by Meg Adams is currently scheduled for release on March 7 2023. Finally, comics that answer life’s most pressing questions: Is my partner actually upset or just hangry? Whose turn is it to remember the reusable shopping bags? Is it appropriate to put up Halloween décor two months in advance? (Spoiler alert: Yes. Yes, it is.)  “Opposites attract” has never rung truer when it comes to vivacious extrovert Meg and her level-headed introvert husband, Carson. Carson makes his coffee with only the finest locally roasted beans; Meg microwaves two-day-old joe. Carson is reserved and rarely opens up to friends; Meg ensures everyone in her life—including her mailman—knows about her hemorrhoid. From the joys of marrying your best friend to the bizarre musings of a twelve-pound pup to the humor and heartbreak of anxiety, Meg’s all-too-relatable comics leave no stone unturned. Dorky and downright hilarious, this book explores what it means to make fun of oneself and find laughter in the little things.

Why Are You Like This? is a fun collection of short comics that explores life and the adulthood none of us were ready for (honestly- no one is ever ready).  I have seen some of the artist's work before, so I already knew the style of artwork and humor before opening the book, and I was greeted by exactly what I was expecting. The book was funny and relatable, and the art style was consistent and heightened the intent and humor of each page. If you like the artist and their style this is a book you will enjoy. If you are an adult, new or otherwise,  or pretending to be an adult there will be at least some aspects of this book you will relate to and find amusing. 

Early Book Review: Pusheen the Cat's Guide to Everything by Claire Belton

Pusheen the Cat's Guide to Everything by Claire Belton is a brand-new collection of comics, expert advice, and silly antics featuring Pusheen and all her friends. It is currently scheduled for release on January 10 2023. Whether you’re hoping to learn how to tell if your cat is a Vampurr or looking to study a comprehensive guide to being lazy—Pusheen has got you covered in this super cute guide to everything! This delightful collection of comics and illustrations features some of the most popular and purr-fectly adorable Pusheen comics you know and love, plus a healthy serving of never-before-seen material. 

Pusheen the Cat's Guide to Everything is exactly what the title suggests. This is a cute and fun comic collection of the long loved Pusheen the Cat and her crew. The artwork and humor are consistent with what long time fans know, and it is equally enjoyable for readers that have no idea who Pusheen is and why they have another book. It is fun to flip though and enjoy in a single sitting or in smaller doses as the mood strikes. 

Early Book Review: Cryptid Club by Sarah Andersen

Cryptid Club by Sarah Andersen is currently scheduled for release on September 20 2022. Do you hate social gatherings? Dodge cameras? Enjoy staying up just a little too late at night? You might have more in common with your local cryptid than you think! Enter the world of Cryptid Club, a look inside the adventures of elusive creatures ranging from Mothman to the Loch Ness Monster. This humorous new series celebrates the unique qualities that make cryptids so desperately sought after by mankind (to no avail). After all, it's what makes us different that also makes us beautiful.

Cryptid Club is a fun and entertaining read. I have enjoyed collections from Andersen before, and I thought the art style and sense of humor held true to what I have seen in the past, and always connected with. I thought the cartoons touched on a full gambit of emotions. Some were cute, others funny, and some were a little sad. However, they all entertained and had a bit of truth or understanding in them. I was entertained and felt like Andersen shared more than a few thoughts and experiences with me, making me feel a little bit more seen and less alone. I think that is a huge achievement for something so fun and enjoyable to read. 

Early Book Review: What's Up, Beanie? by Alina Tysoe

What's Up, Beanie? by Alina Tysoe is a collection of 160 comics that is currently scheduled for release on August 3 2021. Eccentric and self-aware, Alina Tysoe, the pink-haired illustrator, captures relatable topics like family, the awkward pains of social anxiety, sweet moments of love and a growing relationship, amusing childhood stories, and her intense love of dogs. These endearing snapshots of Alina's life are surprisingly familiar, as if they've been taken from your own life: finding solace with a lone puppy at a crowded party, the frustration of deciding what to eat for dinner, making the mistake of hitting the snooze button, accidentally stepping on a dog's foot and feeling like a MONSTER, and tons more!

What's Up, Beanie? is a cute and relatable series of comic. I liked the art style, I found it to be fun and enjoyable to look at. I thought the situations and mood were something most readers can relate to on some level, especially the love of animals. Getting to go through some of Beanie's childhood and adult years was fun. I liked getting to see what growing up with two older sisters, and in her family dynamic, was like and how that differed from my own- even if the key moments of embarrassment and anxiety were consistent with my own. This was a really fun and engaging collection and I really enjoyed every minute of it. 

Early Book Review: Pepper Page Saves the Universe! by Landry Q. Walker, Eric Jones

Pepper Page Saves the Universe! is a graphic novel with script by Landry Q. Walker and art by Eric Jones. It is currently scheduled for release on February 16 2021. The year is 2421. Awkward and shy, Pepper buries herself in the universe of the classic fictional superhero Supernova to avoid dealing with the perils of the 9th grade. But then fate intervenes when Pepper encounters a strange cat named Mister McKittens and stumbles into a volatile science experiment run by a sinister substitute teacher named Doctor Killian. Pepper is flung into another dimension, bringing her face to face with an order of cosmic beings who declare her to be the steward of their great power, champion of harmony in the universe, protector of worlds present and past. Now, in the 21st Century, Pepper finds that she herself is the real Supernova. But as Pepper soon learns, escapist fantasy and reality are two very different things.

Pepper Page Saves the Universe! is a graphic novel for middle grade and older readers that is a fun read, but still covers some of the emotional aspects of the age group. Pepper is an orphan that is bullied and just does not feel she fits in, so gets lost in comic books. I think this feeling- that of being left out and looked down on- is one that most people can relate to on some level, even if they are not really outside the more popular peer groups. I thought the story set up and execution was very well done, with some good twists and nice resolution. The artwork nicely matched and enhances the story. The color choices were on point, as were the details and expressions. Since I was reading a digital proof, there were some pages that were clearly not the final product, and I think the final version will be absolutely wonderful. I am hoping that this series continues and I get to read more about Pepper Page. 

 

Pepper Page Saves the Universe! is a fun and entertaining graphic novel that I think many readers will enjoy.

Early Book Review: Rascal by Jean-Luc Deglin

Rascal by Jean-Luc Deglin is a graphic novel about a mysterious mewling package arriving in the mail. One busy young woman's life changes forever. Rascal lives up to his name, filling every day with wild adventures and long naps: brave expeditions into closets, fierce battles with curtains, and wrestling with slumbering giants... Sometimes she's tempted to throw him out the window. He's lucky he's cute.

Rascal is a cute book about a reluctant cat owner and the mischief that more pet owners can identify with. Rascal is a cute cat, and the illustrations are nice. The black cat is well paired with the tones used on each page. Cats are a blend of sweetness and trouble, killing machines that can endear themselves to even the most reluctant guardians and make us their caretakers, cooks, and maids. I think those of us that already have cats in their lives, and those that wish they did, will enjoy and see something of themselves in the story. 

Book Review: Fowl Language: Winging It The Art of Imperfect Parenting by Brian Gordon

Fowl Language: Winging It The Art of Imperfect Parenting by Brian Gordon is here to remind parents that they are not alone. Parenting is hard and often gross. Laughing about it helps. This comic collection offers readers a comprehensive view of the early parenting years in all of their maddening cuteness and sanity-depriving chaos. The book features some favorites as well as dozens of previously unpublished cartoons organized into 12 thematic chapters—including "Babies: Oh Dear God, What Have We Done?"; "Siblings: Best Frenemies Forever"; and "Sleep: Everybody Needs It, Nobody's Gettin' It". Each of these sections begins with an essay by Gordon.

Winging It is exactly what I was expecting, and then some. I have been a fan of Gordon's work for awhile and follow the related social media accounts. This means that I have seen some of the images before- but something about the style, humor, and honesty inherent in the comics never gt old for me. Too often I think parents are trying to act perfect, like they have it all together and know what they are doing. I have always felt like parents, myself included, are all just faking it and trudging ahead trying to do the best we ca for our families. I love seeing someone writing and drawing about feeling the same way. We all love our kids- but no matter how much love there is there will still be moments when selling them on Esty seems like a good idea. I think that being honest about having those moments is just as important for a parent's mental health and survival as facing the moments when they start pulling away and become more independent. There was a great deal that I related to in this collection- the sleep deprivation, picky eating, and sibling arguments most of all.  I think most parents can find something to relate to or laugh at in this book, and will enjoy the ride. 

Winging It is an enjoyable and relatable read for parents and caregivers. The combination of love and frustration that is parenting is captured with honesty and humor. 

Early Book Review: The Escape Manual for Introverts by Katie Vaz

The Escape Manual for Introverts by Katie Vaz is currently scheduled for release on August 6 2019. Trapped in an airplane seated next to a chatterbox? Are you hosting a dinner party with people who just won't leave? Katie Vaz has the key to your escape. The Escape Manual for Introverts guides readers through different scenarios with themed chapters ("Friends," "Relatives," "Strangers," etc.). Each chapter covers a range of situations, from an invitation to karaoke night to group lunchtime. And she offers a number of escapes for each scenario: bringing odoriferous foods to lunch for a while, having a pet (real or imagined) that "requires" frequent check-ins, and even investing in a jet pack. This book features Vaz's full-page illustrated spreads, hand-lettering, and spot illustrations. From the silly to the sincere, Vaz's clever, hilarious escape plans and bizarre excuses speak to the introvert in all of us. 

The Escape Manual for Introverts is a funny look at how to avoid social interaction when you really feel the need to be alone and recharge. As an introvert that works with the public, I often seek alone time for my off duty hours. Thankfully those closest to me are well aware, and understand my enjoyment of a cup of tea and a good book rather than getting dressed up and going out on the town. This book offers a variety of situations an introvert might feel the desire to escape from and offers some suggests that will help mitigate the small talk and awkward moments. I like that the situations and responses are organized by who you might be interacting with. Some of the suggestions are standard behavior for some of us already, such as bonding with the pets or "helping" in the kitchen to stay busy and out of the fray. Others are great, and slightly more involved- such as finding a cause to volunteer with to help avoid attending situations all together. I both love and dislike this solution. I love it- because getting out and doing good is fabulous, however it could just get you in more situations you might need to avoid- so choose wisely. I do not want to give away any more of the suggestions- because I might need them. The art style is fun, and matches the voice of the book well. 

The Escape Manual for Introverts was a read that I really enjoyed and identified with on several levels. I think introverts, and those that love them, will all enjoy this book.

Book Review: Slothilda: Living the Sloth Life by Dante Fabiero

Slothilda: Living the Sloth Life is a collection of comics by Dante Fabiero. Are you a fan of carbs, the internet, and naps? Slothilda is your spirit animal! From former Simpsons animator Dante Fabiero comes this all-too-real comic series about an adorable little sloth who's driven by her desire for self-improvement. Slothilda explores an inner conflict we can all relate to―the desire to succeed and grow, while paradoxically dealing with the ever present temptation to sloth. With themes related to work, fitness, food, shopping, and pets―this book shows that you're not the only sloth at heart.

Living the Sloth Life is a cute, fun read. I had not seen the comics from the blog previously, so it was all new to me. I related to some of the images and thoughts, but not all, which  is usually the case with collections. However, I really like the artwork, I thought Slothilda was very cute. I liked the inherent honest the author has in sharing the desire we all have to eat and rest as often as we want, and the over exaggeration of the lack of motivation made it funny while making the reader feel better about the things they do and their choices. I am feeling much more accomplished with the amount of work, cleaning, and reasonably healthy eating I do after seeing the sloth version of such activities.

Book Review: Book Love by Debbie Tung

Book Love by Debbie Tung is a collection of comics and such about the everyday life and thoughts of a book lover. There is humor and relatable moments for every reader that has trouble leaving a bookstore or library empty handed, or simply enjoys relaxing with a good book and a cup of tea.

I related to Book Love quite a bit, although I will admit that I spend much less time in bookshops and libraries (as a patron) that I used to. I enjoyed the tone and simplicity of the individual comics. I was kind of sad that I had seen so many of them on social media platforms before having read the book, I wish there were more new work included. However, all of the comics are timeless and struck home on some level, even if I am more likely to be reading and ebook and buying the print books for my kids rather than myself. 

I think Book Love is a sweet and enjoyable book. It would be the perfect gift book for any book lover, although those that refrain from social media and have not seen Tung's work before will likely appreciate it more than those that have seen her work online previously. 

Book Review: Super Chill: A Year of Living Anxiously by Adam Ellis

Super Chill: A Year of Living Anxiously by Adam Ellis is a collection of comics that handle some tough

topics like seasonal affective disorder and struggles with self-esteem, while also touching on the silly and absurd—like his brief, but intense obsession with crystals. 

Super Chill is both funny and poignant. Those of us that are more introverted can relate to to his need to recharge at home, and his desire to avoid large groups of people. I could see a bit of myself in a good number of his comics, aside from the ones about drinking or being high- unless you count how I feel after a dose of cold or allergy medication. I enjoy his art style and think that anyone that has dealt with depression, anxiety, or just not wanting to go out in the world to deal with people will enjoy the read. All of the included comics are ones I had not seen, so I found it to be doubly entertaining and it inspired me to go out and follow Adam on more than just Facebook.

Super Chill is exactly what I was hoping for when I requested the title on Netgalley. I like Adam's art style and sense of humor- and can relate to most of his experiences. I have seen some of his work before, and was not disappointed in this collection.

Early Book Review: Manfried the Man by Caitlin Major, Kelly Bastow

Manfried the Man is a graphic novel by Caitlin Major and Kelly Bastow that reverses the roles of cats and people. It is currently scheduled for release on May 1 2018.

Manfried is a stray man taken in by Steve Catson, a slacker with a dead-end job and nonexistent love life. Soon Manfried becomes the Garfield to Steve’s Jon Arbuckle: lazy, selfish, and sometimes maddening in his weird human behavior. Yet the pair depends on each other to get through life’s troubles. When Manfried runs away, Steve musters his meager resources to find his best man-friend and bring him home safe. Ultimately, both Steve and Manfried realize they’re capable of so much more than they thought.

Manfried the Man is a clever idea, that I am surprised has not already done. The art is very well done, and tells a story that is not all sunshine and roses. Steve has a dead end job, and even that does not last. He doubts himself, his worth, and worries about how others see him. I think most single adults, and most cat lovers (single or not) can relate to many of the conflicts, thoughts, and wackiness that happens around pets. I found that there were times my heart broke for Steve, times I worried for Manfried, and other times that the action made me smile or giggle. I think most cat lovers will get something from the read, and I think it will resonate with many readers as well. I enjoyed the read, even the less happy moments, and found it very much worth my time. 

Early Book Review: Herding Cats: A Sarah's Scribbles Collection by Sarah Andersen

Herding Cats: A Sarah's Scribbles Collection is the third volume of collected comics from Sarah Andersen. Her distinctive style and humor do a painfully on point job of illustrating the very specific growing pains that occur on the way to becoming a mature, put-together grownup. The illustrations also show how to behave as an adult, even though keeping up that behavior is just as hard as getting there to begin with. At the end there is also encouragement and support for readers trying to keep their head above water when dealing with creativity, art, anxiety, and life in general.

Sarah valiantly struggles with waking up in the morning, being productive, and dealing with social situations. Sarah's Scribbles is the comic strip that follows her life, finding humor in living as an adulting introvert that is at times weird, awkward, and embarrassing. While we might not all have the same levels on anxiety or the same creative outlets as this author and artist-  we have all had the moments when we felt so very different, anxious, or other as the drawn version of Sarah. I could relate to so many of her strips. Even in the strips I could not relate personally I could see the reality of the day to day struggles that so many face. I loved the relateable feel, and the perseverance and humor that underlies her actions. Some of the strips were ones I have seen before, since I follow Sarah's Scribbles, however I felt like there were a significant number of fresh, new strips. I also found the other text from Anderson at the end of the book to be uplifting and supportive to artists and others dealing with anxiety or having trouble adulting to be a great way to connect with and support her readers. All most of us want is to know we are not alone, and seeing someone that you might look up to commiserating with the same troubles could be just the encouragement readers need.

Book Review: Fowl Language: The Struggle Is Real by Brian Gordon

Fowl Language: The Struggle Is Real by Brian Gordon is a collection of comics about parenting, some were already published by Fowl Language online while some of it is brand new. Fowl Language is a comic for any parent or caregiver. The joy, frustration, wonder, and misery that are all part of caring for the next generation told via cartoon ducks. I follow the comic on Facebook, so I already had seen a few, but for some reason they never get old. 

Fowl Language: The Struggle Is Real is funny, sometime poignant, and almost always relatable. I love that Gordon includes the moments that we struggle with it all as well as the moments that make it all worth while. Anyone that enjoys the online comic will want to at least take a look at the book, but adding it to the home library might help get through the harder nights. This would also be a great gift to new or expecting parents, and those sending their kids out into the world on their own. 

Early Book Review: If My Dogs Were a Pair of Middle-Age Men by Matthew Inman (The Oatmeal)

If My Dogs Were a Pair of Middle-Age Men by Matthew Inman (also known as The Oatmeal) is currently schedule for release on September 26 2017.  This charmingly absurd gift book about man’s best friend is the kind of humor and art that one fully expects from the mind behind The Oatmeal and books like How to Tell If Your Cat Is Plotting to Kill You. In If My Dogs Were a Pair of Middle-Aged Men, Matthew Inman imagines what life would be like if his dogs were a couple of old men running around his house. The result is a pitch-perfect gift for any dog owner, animal lover, or fan of The Oatmeal.

If My Dogs Were a Pair of Middle-Age Men gives readers exactly what they should expect from this author, with this title. Inman draws his two dogs as middle age men and puts them in everyday doggy situations. Not high brow humor by any means- but anyone with dogs (or pets of any kind really) can relate to the adventures of this two, and the reactions of their owner. They are suitably silly and occasionally gross- like any animal is bound to be. The book is amusing and hits all the right notes, at least the ones that anyone with any prior knowledge of the Oatmeal would expect. It was short, but I think that is better than dragging on the jokes to the point where they are no longer quite as amusing. 

Book Review: Simone: The Best Monster Ever by Remy Simard

Simone: The Best Monster Ever by Remy Simard is not quite a graphic novel, but rather a collection of short comic strips for young readers. In this comics we see Simone, a sweet, rosy-cheeked little girl. Maurice is a green, googly-eyed monster. When Simone enters Maurice’s world, she strikes terror in monsters’ hearts! Here, the rules are turned upside down—flowers, puppies, and good behavior are the stuff of nightmares, and all things scary and icky are adored.

Simone: The Best Monster Ever is a very colorful and cute comic collection. I was a little disappointed that it was short strips rather than a larger story, but for  readers or those that like to read in short bursts this might be just what they are looking for. I liked the concept of things being reversed, with cute things being scary and so on. However, as a whole I found the humor to be hit or miss- and the short nature oft he individual comics to be a little off-putting. It has some elements that will very much appeal to the youngest independent readers, but some that will only appeal to an older audience. I feel like the balance that would make it appeal to both groups was missed, which made it an imperfect fit for either. I know there is still an audience, and many readers will enjoy the humor and the bright artwork, and it is still worth a read. However, I was just expecting more.

Book Review: Lunarbaboon: The Daily Life of Parenthood by Christopher Grady

Lunarbaboon: The Daily Life of Parenthood is a collection of comics from  Christopher Grady that explores the daily family life with Lunarbaboon. The comics show life's everyday parenting moments from the perspective of a 30-something dad together with the laid back Mom, wild child Moishe, baby Matilda, and their cat.  Moods of the art range from the hilarious (defeating closet monsters with a “stun” blaster that offers surprising facts about bears, Mars, and cats) to the sweet (the gray scale-to color transition out of depression at the touch of a loved one).

Lunarbaboon: The Daily Life of Parenthood is a collection that hit all the right notes with me. I love the online version of this comic, and found the collection to be just as enjoyable, even though I had seen some of them before. I like that Grady includes the funny and enjoyable moments of parenthood along side the sad, frustrating, and sweet moments. The honest and slightly jaded look at life is one I can relate to, and lose myself in. I enjoy the perspective and the combination of humor and more serious emotions. I think that parents from a variety of backgrounds and situations will see something that reflects the daily moments in their lives. The only downfall is that I had seen some of the comics before, my only change would be for more new art, but I am sure that more will come our way in time. 

Book Review: Big Mushy Happy Lump by Sarah Anderson

Big Mushy Happy Lump by Sarah Anderson is a collection of artwork from Sarah's Scribbles along with biographical material including her struggles with anxiety. Swimsuit season is coming up! Better get beach-body ready! Work on those abs! Lift those butts! Or how about never mind to all that and just be a lump, a happy lump. The comics, and the book, are for those of us who boast bookstore-ready bodies and Netflix-ready hair, who are always down for all-night reading-in-bed parties and extremely exclusive after-hour one-person music festivals. 

Big Mushy Happy Lump is a fun bunch of comics that I can relate to. However, it is a lot more than that. Sarah uses the book to share some very personal experience and struggles that she has had with anxiety, depression, and so much more. I think that since I could see myself so clearly in parts of the book, that others will see at least a little of themselves, or someone they love, in the book as well. It helps those of us struggling with life in general because we can see that we are not alone. In fact, I think we make up the majority- if only we could interact enough with each other to share that information. I laughed at moments, and tears threatened at others. I think this is a nice balance of memoir and humor, and that the honest and uplifting tone of the book will resonate with a wide variety of readers. 

Book Review: It’s All Absolutely Fine by Ruby Elliot

It’s All Absolutely Fine by Ruby Elliot explores the highs and lows of modern life through the sharp, dark wit of Ruby Elliot—creator of the massively popular Tumblr account, Rubyetc, which has over 210k followers and growing. Ruby’s simple drawings of not-so-simple issues capture the humor and melancholy of everyday life. Her comics appeal to both new adults who are beginning to explore these subjects and to battle-tested veterans of the daily struggles of life with mental illness. It’s All Absolutely Fine is an honest and unapologetic account of day-to-day life as a groaning, crying, laughing sentient potato being for whom things are often absolutely not fine. Through simple, humorous drawings and a few short narratives, the book encompasses everything from mood disorders, anxiety, and issues with body image through to existential conversations with dogs and some unusually articulate birds. Through the drawings, the reader is shown that it is okay to struggle, and that it is okay to talk about struggling, to not undermine oneself by yelling ‘it’s fine’ when it isn’t, and while all this is going on to know that it is absolutely possible to hold on to hope, and of course humor. 

It’s All Absolutely Fine is a collection of art and words that can shown readers that they are not alone. Anyone dealing with anxiety, feeling lost or alone, or battling any mental illness can find bits of their struggle on these pages while offering support and encouragement to keep on moving forward. I found the read made me smile, cry, and feel more empowered in dealing with the world around me and moving toward the future. Fans of Rubyetc's huge online presence will find more of what they love here, and I think the book will foster new fans as well.